Summer is almost here, and if you're headed for vacation--be it for a few weeks for a few months--you're bound to get more than just a great tan!  If you're looking for a Danny Zuko to your Sandy Olsson, read on for tips on how to successfully go about a summer fling...and how to deal when your feelings get involved.

Pick someone you wouldn't normally date.  You're not looking for a soul mate during your fling, so don't think too hard about certain qualities, like his manner of dress or his income.   You're allowed to pick someone based on his smile or the way he moves on the dance floor; if he is also super-nice, has a great personality and is a good conversationalist, then that's just a bonus!

Make sure you both know where the other stands.  It only makes sense that both halves of the couple know that this is only a temporary thing right off the bat.  If you're more the relationship type and he isn't (or vice versa), a three-month fling just may not work for you guys.  Be sure this is what you both want, and that you both know it won't be long-term; this will maximize your fun and minimize the heartache when summer ends.

Have fun, but be safe.  Summer flings may be based solely on all things carnal and casual; use this opportunity to try new things and explore your sexual boundaries!  However, when being with a new partner, do take all the precautions to be safe in your sexploits:  make sure you have been tested for STIs beforehand, ask your new partner if he has been tested, and be sure to use condoms.  If you're looking for ideas on having some fun on the beach, click here.

And if you've developed deeper feelings by summer's end...

Look at your situation realistically.  Ask yourself these questions: What's the geographical distance between the two of you?  Do you have time for a relationship amidst your schedule?  Have both your feelings gotten so deep that you are willing to give a relationship a try?  If a relationship is something that is feasible and that you both want, then there is no reason to not extend your fling beyond the summer.

Give a long-distance relationship a try.  Long-distance relationships aren't easy, but if you're committed enough, they can be successful.  Follow our tips on overcoming the distance here.  And if your attempt isn't a successful one, do know that you tried your best and that it lasted longer than you had both originally intended, and that is an achievement in itself.